CAQM flags farm fires in Muktsar, Fazilka as state count rises to 3,622

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reported a marginal decline in overall stubble burning cases, but raised concern over a rise in such incidents in Muktsar and Fazilka districts.

These findings were detailed in a recent CAQM report and discussed during a high-level review meeting with Punjab officials in Chandigarh. CAQM Chairperson Rajesh Verma led field visits across the state to assess crop residue management and enforcement. The commission took a strict view of repeated environmental norm violations at the Lehra Mohabbat Thermal Power Plant in Bathinda, warning of possible closure if standards were not met.

Despite the team’s visit, stubble burning incidents rose again, with 238 new cases reported on Saturday. Punjab has now logged 3,622 farm fires this season. Sangrur, CM Bhagwant Mann’s home district, recorded the highest number of incidents, followed by Ferozepur, Mansa, and Moga.

Muktsar and Fazilka districts showed an upward trend, prompting the commission to call for urgent state intervention. The CAQM team also inspected the Rajpura Thermal Power Plant in Patiala and a compressed biogas plant at Lehragaga in Sangrur.

At Lehra Mohabbat, serious concerns were raised about operational conditions and continued non-compliance with emission standards.

Closure directions may follow, if corrective action is not taken immediately.

From September 15 to November 6 this year, Punjab has reported 3,284 farm fires compared to 5,041 during the same period last year—a marginal improvement. The CAQM emphasised that much more needs to be done to eliminate stubble burning completely.

The commission has directed Punjab to boost awareness campaigns, ensure timely availability of residue management machinery, and support CBG plants and other straw-using industries. The state was also told to enforce stricter accountability and punitive action against officials in fire-prone areas.